A Guide to Installation Techniques for Residential Systems
This correspondence course, also available in Spanish, teaches installers the techniques for residential fire sprinkler system installation according to the 2007 ed. of NFPA 13D, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes, in as little as 6 months. Modules include introduction to the trade; construction math; system design considerations; tools, material & installation overview; and special systems & retrofit. Appendices on the subjects of CPVC pipe & fittings and copper tube systems are also included.
This course teaches installers the techniques for residential fire sprinkler system installation according to the 2007 edition of NFPA 13D, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes.
Although many contractors are accustomed to protecting large structures from fire based on NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, many communities are beginning to take action to protect their private residences from fire, and while the same basic principles apply, residential systems vary considerably from their larger commercial counterparts.
The book is divided into five modules. Each module includes a series of lessons that cover a particular topic within the scope of that module. Some of the topics addressed in this new book are: basic safety, basic construction math, metric conversion processes, system overview, piping system configurations, residential sprinkler system design criteria, residential sprinkler types, sprinkler system types, sprinkler system components, hydraulic calculations, special applications, electrolysis, plans, water supplies, tool types, threaded pipe, CPVC, copper, sprinkler installation, special systems, multi-purpose systems, typical sprinkler system water supply, microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC), and air/water interface structures.
Paired with a training DVD, AFSA’s training guide provides fire sprinkler contractors with the tools they need to quickly, yet effectively, train their employees on residential fire sprinkler systems installation. Test materials are provided to allow student testing on a periodic basis. Tests are taken online or paper tests are forwarded to AFSA’s headquarters for grading, and the company is notified of student’s test scores.
* Residential Fire Sprinkler System Installation: A Guide to Installation Techniques for Residential Systems is intended only for use in residential applications for one- and two-family dwellings and to assist the user in installation of residential sprinkler systems in compliance with NFPA 13D. Residential sprinkler systems should be installed by an experienced, licensed installation contractor and need to meet NFPA standards as well as all local building codes.
5 Modules
Upon completion, the student will receive 114 credit hours.
Module 1 Introduction to the Trade (18 Hours)
Upon completion of this module, the trainee will understand the difference between building codes and standards; explain the roles of testing agencies and AHJs in the fire sprinkler industry; demonstrate the use and care of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE); explain the appropriate safety precautions to take around common job-site hazards; follow safety procedures required for lifting heavy objects; describe safe behavior on and around ladders and scaffolds, and explain the appropriate use of barriers and barricades.
- Lesson 1 (Sections 1.0 through 4.1.2)
- Lesson 2 (Sections 4.2 through 4.10.2)
- Lesson 3 (Sections 4.11 through End)
Module 2 Basic Construction Math (18 Hours)
Upon completion of this module, the trainee will be able to add, subtract, multiply, and divide whole numbers; use a standard ruler to measure; add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions; add, subtract, multiply, and divide decimals; and demonstrate basic conversion processes for decimals, percentages, and fractions.
- Lesson 4 (Sections 1.0 through 1.1.17)
- Lesson 5 (Sections 2.0 through 5.2.1)
- Lesson 6 (Sections 5.3 through End)
Module 3 System Design Configurations (18 Hours)
Upon completion of this module, the trainee will be able to identify three different piping configurations; define the meaning of a multipurpose piping system; identify basic design criteria for residential sprinkler systems outlined in industry standards such as NFPA 13D, UL 1626, and FM 2030; explain different types of sprinklers and system types approved for residential installation; identify sprinkler system components such as pipes, valves, fittings, piping support, sprinklers, and alarms; perform basic manual hydraulic calculations; identify residential construction areas requiring special applications; explain electrolysis; and describe the importance of water supplies, sources, and distribution in a fire sprinkler system.
- Lesson 7 (Sections 1.0 through 3.5)
- Lesson 8 (Sections 4.0 through 6.8)
- Lesson 9 (Sections 7.0 through End)
Module 4 Tools, Material, and Installation Overview (48 Hours)
Upon completion of this module, the trainee will be able to explain the functions of and how to use many tools applied in fire sprinkler system installation (hand tools, power tools, threading machines); describe how to cut, thread, ream, oil, and clean pipe; identify types of fittings; follow basic safety precautions for the preparation and installation of CPVC and copper pipe; identify approved types CPVC and copper pipe; calculate takeouts for both CPVC and copper pipe; set up equipment for both CPVC and copper pipe; join and cure CPVC pipe; cut, chamfer, and clean copper pipe; check for correctness of end preparation for both CPVC and copper pipe; explain steps for basic fire sprinkler system installation; identify types of hangers, anchors, and fasteners; install sprinkler drops, and conduct a visual inspection and hydrostatic test of the installed system.
- Lesson 10 (Sections 1.0 through 3.1)
- Lesson 11 (Sections 3.2 through 3.12)
- Lesson 12 (Sections 4.0 through 5.6)
- Lesson 13 (Sections 5.7 through End)
- Lesson 14 (Appendix A, Sections 1.0.0 through 3.3.0)
- Lesson 15 (Appendix A, Sections 4.0.0 through Summary)
- Lesson 16 (Appendix B, Sections 1.0.0 through 5.7.0)
- Lesson 17 (Appendix B, Sections 6.0.0 through Summary)
Module 5 Special Systems and Retrofit (12 Hours)
Upon completion of this module, the trainee will be able to explain the need for installation of special systems, such as dry pipe and antifreeze; understand the use of pumps, identify the presence of microbiologically influenced corrosion and the hazards it presents; explain the steps of retrofitting existing structures; demonstrate routine maintenance; and identify various types of wall construction.
- Lesson 18 (Sections 1.0 through 3.0)
- Lesson 19 (Sections 4.0 through End)
Additional Resources:
- BlazeMaster® Fire Sprinkler Systems
- Literature is available in the “Design & Installation” section on the website.
- The latest information on CPVC compatibility with steel pipe can be found here: www.systemcompatible.com
- Copper Development Association
- Several documents in the “Publications” section
- NFPA 13D: Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes
- Various manufacturers’ demonstrations of CPVC care and installation
- Some manufacturers offer training courses for the installation of their products:
